The underrated seeds that aid sleep and lower blood pressure

Despite their numerous health advantages, some dried fruits and nuts don't enjoy the popularity of items like raisins, dried apricots, or nuts. This is often due to the limited availability of specific products in the market. An example of such a dried fruit is the white poppy seed, which is often difficult to spot on supermarket shelves. Nonetheless, it is worth incorporating these tiny nutritional powerhouses into your diet occasionally.

The white poppy is one variant of this well-known plant. The blue poppy seeds are the ones we most frequently come across in stores, but it is worth giving these lesser-known white seeds a try to explore their health benefits. This variant of poppy is especially appreciated in India for its beneficial effects, such as blood pressure reduction.

White poppy seeds possess a more delicate flavor than their more popular blue counterparts. They are slightly sweeter, making them perfect not only for cakes and desserts but also as an addition to evening meals like oatmeal or millet. In India, these seeds are often incorporated into sauces or fish dishes. Occasionally, in Poland, you can find traditional St. Martin's roissants that incorporate this type of poppy seeds. White poppy seeds are rich in various health-promoting ingredients such as vitamins A, C, E, and B group vitamins (B1, B2, B6, B9, B12). Essential minerals like phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, iron, and calcium can also be found in these seeds.

Various studies have been conducted to understand the impact of white poppy seed consumption on our health. Scientists have determined that eating these seeds can help lower blood pressure and promote better sleep. It's important to clarify that the white poppy is a different species altogether, not a strain of the plant from which opium is made. Although beneficial, these seeds should be consumed in moderation, considering their potent medicinal properties.

White poppy seeds can facilitate weight loss by enhancing intestinal peristalsis, primarily due to their high fiber content, which can prevent constipation and help shed extra pounds. Incorporating this variant of poppy into meals such as millet for breakfast or dinner can help lower total and "bad cholesterol" levels as well as blood sugar levels.

However, white poppy seeds are not for everyone. People with digestive system diseases, pregnant women, and children under the age of two should avoid these seeds. When taking medication for chronic illnesses, a doctor's consultation should be sought first to avoid potentially harmful interactions.